Could someone please tell me what Vitreous Detachment is??? I received this request from my mother, and I don't know why she is asking. I assume that it has something to do with the eye, but I don't know for sure. Thanks......
Answered by Richard E. Gans, M. D. (xx102@ofcn.org)
The vitreous is the gel that fills the center of the eye. Over time, that gel undergoes a process called syneresis, in which the gel shrinks and is replaced by a clear fluid. As that gel shrinks, it separates from the retina, the nerve layer which lines the back of the eye. As the gel separates, it pulls on the nerve fibers of the retina, stimulating them, and resulting in the appearance of "flashes of light" in your field of vision. When the gel completely separates, it will often result in the appearance of nebulous shadows in your field of vision which are "vitreous floaters".
A vitreous detachment, or posterior vitreous separation, is not a problem by itself. It is a normal function of aging. The concern surrounding a vitreous detachment comes from its association with retinal tears and detachments. As the gel pulls on the retina, it can tear a hole in the retina which can lead to a retinal detachment and a severe loss of vision. Depending on the source, there is an 8 - 12 % chance of developing a retinal tear when one has a vitreous detachment. Because of this, it is strongly recommended that anyone with new symptoms of flashes of light and new floaters be examined thoroughly by an ophthalmologist.
If a retinal hole is found, without evidence of a retinal detachment, the laser is used to seal off the hole and prevent a detachment from occurring. This is a painless procedure, done on an ambulatory basis. If, however, a retinal detachment is found, it will often require more extensive surgery.
PLEASE NOTE: The information contained on this system is not intended to supplant individual professional consultation, but is offered as a community education service. Advice on individual problems should be obtained directly from a professional.
Copyright, 1994. Richard E. Gans, M.D.
Last Modified: August 23, 1996